Culture, Heritage, and Arts

Rich and diverse visual arts, built heritage, cultural landscapes, and community activities.

TARGET

MEASURE

PROGRESS

Increase community participation rates in local arts, culture, and heritage events, including First Nation initiatives

Increase participation by 10% by 2020

Participation in special events funded by the City increased 16% from 2014 to 2017.

Rationale

Diverse and inclusive culture and heritage encourages a rich community life that is constantly changing. A strong arts community increases civic pride and quality of life, and attracts new residents, businesses, and visitors to Whitehorse.

Jurisdiction

Medium. City owns heritage buildings and controls its public infrastructure.

Progress

The City recently signed a Declaration of Commitment with Ta'an Kwäch’än Council and Kwanlin Dün First Nation, which commits to working together and strengthening partnerships on issues of mutual interest and benefit.

The City continues to support arts and culture in the community. The Arts Policy was updated in 2018, maintaining a public art dedication from all new building budgets. The City also funds numerous special events, and provides significant in-kind support to various cultural initiatives.